Trout Unlimited

Overview

Trout Unlimited (TU) is a U.S. non-profit organization dedicated to the conservation of freshwater streams, rivers, and associated upland habitats. Founded in 1959 in Michigan, TU focuses on protecting and restoring America's coldwater fisheries and their watersheds.

History

Trout Unlimited was established by a group of 16 anglers who gathered on the banks of Michigan's Au Sable River. The founders included notable figures like Art Neumann and George Griffith. Initially named "Trout, Unlimited," the organization later dropped the comma to become "Trout Unlimited." Dr. Casey E. Westell Jr. served as the first president, with Art Neumann as the first vice president.

Purpose and Mission

Trout Unlimited's mission is to bring together diverse interests to care for and recover rivers and streams, ensuring future generations can enjoy wild and native trout and salmon. The organization's vision is to engage communities across America in the work of repairing and renewing rivers and streams.

Activities

TU engages in a variety of conservation efforts, including stream restoration, advocacy, and educational programs. Local chapters participate in activities such as citizen science projects and outreach programs for youth and veterans. Trout Unlimited collaborates with government agencies like the U.S. Forest Service and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to restore habitats and improve fish passage by removing barriers like dams and culverts.

Trout Unlimited is known for its opposition to environmental threats, such as the proposed Pebble Mine in Alaska's Bristol Bay and the Keystone XL pipeline. The organization supports policies like carbon taxes and advocates for the removal of dams that hinder fish migration.

Organizational Structure

Trout Unlimited operates with a significant volunteer force, tallying over 734,000 volunteer hours in 2017. The organization has about 220 staff members across various departments, including science, conservation, government affairs, and development. TU is structured into local chapters and councils, with approximately 387 chapters in 36 councils nationwide.

Funding and Donors

Trout Unlimited is funded by both private donors and environmentalist foundations, including the Nature Conservancy and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. The organization also receives grants from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation for environmental remediation projects.

Leadership

The president of Trout Unlimited is Christopher Wood, who previously worked as a senior policy advisor at the U.S. Forest Service. Bernard C. Bailey serves as the chairman of the board of trustees.

Impact and Recognition

Trout Unlimited is recognized as the most effective coldwater fisheries conservation organization in the United States. The organization has achieved a high rating from Charity Navigator for its effectiveness and transparency. Through its efforts, Trout Unlimited works to ensure the long-term health of America's coldwater fisheries and the communities that depend on them.